Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo
  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

My gecko lost its tail. How to care for an injured gecko and tank?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Reptile | Gecko

I bought a wounded baby gecko, I mean wounded because it's tail is gone. I'm not sure how old or what gender it is yet because of it missing its tail. My questions are I put a piece of clean dried drift wood & some dried out lemons & oranges in its aquarium is that ok or harmful? I also added moisture to its substrate & shallow dish of calcium powder & crickets sprinkled with it. Its tail don't seem to growing. Its only 3+half inches long,any suggestions would be great. Please & thank you

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Angel Alvarado, LVT

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on March 3rd, 2019

Remove the citrus fruit. It won't do anything but perhaps attract pests. Remove any loose substrate as well. Use reptile carpet or paper towels until the tail regenerates. If Skully is a crested gecko, the tail will not regenerate.
If the stump is "open" clean it gently using a cotton swab and diluted Betadine. After it is dry, dab a thin layer of triple antibiotic ointment on it. Do this daily until it is healed. The tail should regenerate in about 4 weeks. Continue to provide proper environmental parameters and an appropriate diet to promote healing and overall health.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on May 9th, 2018

    if you can keep the area clean, then leave him there. Losing a tail is stressful enough without dealing with a new environment.
    Change the paper towels daily or every second day. Have food and water available at all times. Monitor for redness, swelling or discharge. See your veterinarian or an experienced herp vet if necessary. Given a clean environment, the stump should heal on its own.
    Crested geckos do not regrow their tails.

    Vote Icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share

Styled arrow button